Crafting Contemporary Sicilian Wines with Tradition and Sustainability
Nestled in the heart of Sicily, the Brugnano Winery represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Established with a vision to honor both the rich heritage of Sicilian winemaking and the demands of a modern, eco-conscious world, the winery has grown from humble beginnings into a beacon of sustainable and contemporary wine production.
A Journey Rooted in Sicilian Heritage
The Brugnano story began in the lush vineyards of Sicily, a region renowned for its deep connection to viticulture. Initially, the family focused on buying grapes to produce wine, a common practice in Sicily’s historical wine market. However, over time, the family recognized the value of owning and nurturing their own vineyards. Today, Brugnano Winery oversees 72 hectares of vineyards spread across three distinct areas. Like as Montemirto, situated at 600 meters above sea level, this vineyard is home to a variety of autochthonous (native) grape varieties. It serves as the primary source of grapes for the winery’s most prominent bottles. Then, Alcamo, located in Trapani province, these vineyards lie at an altitude of 300-350 meters above sea level and eventually Partinico, the vineyards here feature terroir similar to Alcamo, providing a balanced and diverse portfolio of grapes.
A focus on native varieties is needed. Brugnano Winery prioritizes native Sicilian grape varieties while incorporating a small percentage of international grapes for blending. This approach celebrates the uniqueness of Sicilian terroir and caters to a global palate. The wines reflect a commitment to authenticity, balancing tradition with innovation.
A new generation of leadership is there
In 2022, Francesco and Giuseppe Brugnano took the reins of the winery, bringing fresh energy and a modern perspective. Guided by their father, Salvatore Brugnano, who contributes decades of experience, the brothers embarked on a mission to redefine Sicilian wines for the contemporary consumer. Their mantra, “Contemporary Sicilian Wine”, embodies this mission, targeting younger generations with innovative products, updated labels, and a commitment to sustainability.
Sustainability at the core
The Brugnano Winery has made sustainability a cornerstone of its operations. Francesco and Giuseppe have implemented several eco-friendly practices, including:
- Solar panels, the winery generates 60% of its energy needs through solar power, with plans to increase this percentage incrementally;
- Shipping Innovations, by shipping orders via the port of Palermo rather than overland, the winery reduces its CO2 emissions significantly;
- Eco-friendly Packaging, continuous efforts are being made to improve the sustainability of their materials and processes.
Embracing change while honoring the past, despite its forward-looking approach, the Brugnano Winery remains deeply rooted in its heritage. The underground concrete tanks once used by Francesco’s grandfather to ferment wine are preserved as a testament to the winery’s history. These tanks, while no longer in use, serve as a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of previous generations.
The importance of terroir is one of the most important asset
Sicily’s diverse soils contribute to the uniqueness of Brugnano’s wines. The winery’s vineyards span a variety of soil types, including calcareous and red soils, each imparting distinct characteristics to the grapes. This natural diversity, combined with the region’s continental influences, ensures that every bottle tells a story of its origin.
The Brugnano Winery is on a mission to position Sicilian wines on the global stage, blending centuries-old practices with cutting-edge sustainability and modern appeal. As they continue to innovate and grow, Francesco and Giuseppe remain committed to their roots, ensuring that every glass of Brugnano wine reflects the soul of Sicily – timeless, bold, and unmistakably contemporary.
